Put Yourself First

Posted by amgamez, Community Contributor

Do you care about your family? Many of us would say yes, but how can we say that if we don't care about ourselves first. According to the American Diabetes Association, "Many Latinos feel guilty spending time and money on personal health. They feel selfish putting their own health care ahead of their family's needs." (Por tu familia) This is so true in the Hispanic culture. Diabetes is a rapidly growing disease in the Hispanic community. We need to change our way of thinking and become aware of this disease.Diabetes mellitus (DM) is simply known as diabetes. It is an illness that causes high blood sugar levels. According to Medical News Today, there are three main types. First, Type 1- the body does not produce insulin. The cause is not known. Only 10% of people have this form. Second, Type 2- the body does not produce enough insulin. Type 2 is the most common to the Hispanic population. The cause is being overweight and lack of exercise. About 90% of all cases are this type. Third, Gestational diabetes- this type affects women during pregnancy. All three types are treatable. (Diabetes: Symptoms, Types and Treatments)Hispanic rates almost double those of non-Latino whites with diabetes. (Urgent Health Problem) The American Diabetes Association listed the following statistics for Hispanic adults diagnosed with diabetes:• 8.5% for Central and South Americans• 9.3% for Cubans• 13.9% for Mexican Americans• 14.8% for Puerto RicansAs Hispanic myself, I understand how easy it is to brush one's health aside to take care of everyone else first. I learned this from generations before me, because it is the Hispanic way or culture. My grandmother, my mother, and I are all guilty of this. My father also followed this pattern. He did not believe in going to the doctor. He would rather use the money for more important things like paying bills, buying food, and clothing. I still remember the day he went to the doctor and was told he had this disease. He didn't believe the doctor. "How could I have this? Could I have prevented this?" he asked. That day we realized the need to change and the importance of being healthy not only for ourselves but for our family. If not, complications could occur:• Stroke• Blindness and eye problems• Hypertension• Heart ProblemsIn order to prevent this from happening, incorporate exercise and healthy eating to your daily life. This will help control your blood glucose levels. A great physical activity to begin is walking. Choose more vegetable, fruits, and whole grains while shopping for a healthier diet even though they might be a little more expensive. This will be a wonderful start towards a healthier you.Diabetes is one of the leading causes of death in the United States and does not discriminate. Make time to exercise daily and eat healthier. And don't forget to visit your doctor regularly. These gradual lifestyle changes will improve your health. Your family is important, and they need you.